Boxing All Black has a ring of confidence

World Cup winner Sonny Bill Williams will switch from pitch to ring once again in February when he fights for New Zealand’s vacant heavyweight boxing crown, the All Blacks back told local media yesterday.

Williams faces ten-year professional Richard Tutaki in Hamilton on 8 February, less than three weeks before his debut with his new Super rugby side, Waikato Chiefs.

Undefeated in four fights against a succession of journeyman opponents, Williams said Tutaki presents a real challenge.

“Every time you step in the ring, there’s a bit of fear, but that motivates you to train hard and do your best,” said Williams.

“He’s a seasoned campaigner, 40 fights, so hopefully I haven’t bitten off too much, but I’ll be right.”

His 33-year-old opponent, nicknamed the “Tutaki Express Train”, has a 19-21 record with one draw in 41 fights. He lost his last bout in April following an 18-month break from the sport.

Williams won his last fight by unanimous decision in June against 43-year-old Tongan boxer Alipate Liava’a as then-All Blacks coach Graham Henry looked on from the crowd. But he was criticised for being unable to finish his opponent.

“After the last fight I said to my manager I want to try and step up in class. I was offered the chance to fight for the belt and it’s not every day you get the opportunity,” added Williams.

“I’m really excited. Hopefully this is something I can add to my sporting achievements. As a boxer I’m always evolving and I think there’s a lot of improvement in me.”

Williams’s boxing aspirations have stoked controversy in New Zealand, where fans and pundits fret that the barnstorming 26-year-old could suffer serious damage and endanger his rugby career.

Williams, who played in the All Blacks’ second World Cup triumph, has nonetheless been aided by the New Zealand Rugby Union, who permitted a limited number of fights in his one-year contract.